In 2013, Lieutenant Steve Galuska, Firefighter William McHugh and Firefighter Kent Chamberlain, members of the Lost Acres Fire Department, worked together to develop and implement the Lost Acres Fire Department Cadet Program. These members received training and guidance from The Boy Scouts Learning for Life Division. The LAFD Cadet Program is open to youth ages 14 to 18 that attend Granby Middle or High School.

LAFD Cadets receive specialized training that enables them to take an active role in supporting LAFD members with fire ground support, including hose work, SCBA bottle changes, tool accountability and many other valuable functions.   These skills are essential in supporting the LAFD during emergency and non-emergency scenes. 

The skills taught to the cadets are not just limited to support functions. Cadets regularly undergo training on simulated structure fires, vehicle fires, vehicle extrication and victim recovery and lift assists at Enders Falls. By learning these skills as cadets, they develop a solid foundation that enhances their ability to become an active firefighter with the LAFD upon turning 18 years of age.

Upon completion of the LAFD Cadet program, members have enrolled and completed the Firefighter I training course at the Hartford County Fire School, have joined their collegiate fire departments as volunteers, and have pursued firefighting/EMT careers in the military.  Several former cadets are now active members of the Lost Acres Fire Department and continue to service their community on a volunteer basis.

The Cadet Program fosters responsibility, sense of community, and accomplishment in each of its members. Please contact Lieutenant Steve Galuska for more information regarding the LAFD Cadet Program at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..